Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti

Imagine indulging in a creamy, cheesy baked spaghetti that’s taken to the next level with the irresistible flavor of crispy bacon. This Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti is the epitome of comfort food, bringing together tender strands of pasta coated in a rich, velvety sauce made with cream cheese, mozzarella, and a hint of garlic and onion. The combination of the salty, smoky bacon and the creamy sauce is sure to make every bite a satisfying experience. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you’re craving something indulgent, this dish is easy to prepare and will impress even the pickiest eaters. The bubbling mozzarella on top, mixed with crumbles of bacon, creates a beautifully golden crust that adds a deliciously savory finish. Serve it up with a fresh salad or some garlic bread, and you have a meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

1 lb dry spaghetti
4 cups milk
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of bacon soup
8 oz softened cream cheese
1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
1/2 tablespoon onion powder
3 1/2 cups grated mozzarella cheese (divided)
1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cook spaghetti until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, combine milk and condensed cream of bacon soup. Heat over medium until smooth and well combined.
Stir in the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Add 2 cups of mozzarella cheese and half of the cooked bacon to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese and the remaining bacon on top.
Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 620 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti: A Comfort Food Classic with a Creamy Twist

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the warm, homey appeal of baked spaghetti. It’s a dish that brings back memories of family gatherings, shared meals, and cozy evenings around the dinner table. But what if we took this beloved classic and elevated it with some extra indulgence? Enter the Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti—a recipe that takes traditional baked pasta and infuses it with layers of rich, creamy, and savory flavors. This version is the ultimate treat for pasta lovers, combining the familiar comfort of spaghetti with the decadence of creamy cheese and crispy bacon.

The Inspiration Behind Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti

The idea of baked pasta is not new—versions of baked spaghetti or lasagna have been enjoyed in Italian and American homes for generations. The concept is simple: tender pasta is mixed with a flavorful sauce, topped with cheese, and baked until bubbly. The Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti takes inspiration from this timeless tradition but introduces a few creative twists that make it stand out from the crowd. By incorporating cream cheese into the sauce, this dish gains an extra layer of richness and a velvety texture that pairs perfectly with the smoky, savory flavor of bacon.

This recipe is perfect for those who crave something familiar yet want a little surprise with every bite. It’s a dish that feels both nostalgic and new, giving you the best of both worlds.

Why This Recipe Is a Winner

Rich and Creamy Texture: The addition of cream cheese makes the sauce irresistibly creamy, creating a luxurious coating that clings to each strand of spaghetti. It gives the dish a smooth, rich texture that you don’t often find in traditional baked pasta recipes. Unlike heavier alfredo sauces or the more tangy marinara-based bakes, this cream cheese sauce strikes the perfect balance between richness and lightness, making it a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Balanced Flavor Profile: One of the key reasons this recipe is so delicious is its well-balanced flavor profile. The saltiness of the bacon contrasts beautifully with the mild sweetness of the cream cheese, while garlic and onion powders add a subtle depth of flavor. It’s savory and comforting but never overwhelming, with every bite offering a new taste sensation. The mozzarella cheese on top adds that gooey, melty finish that makes baked pasta dishes so satisfying.
Versatile and Adaptable: While this recipe is perfect as-is, it’s also easy to adapt to your preferences. You can add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added color and nutrients. For a spicier kick, try mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes or using pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella. Vegetarians can even adapt this recipe by omitting the bacon and using a meat-free bacon alternative, while still enjoying that creamy, cheesy goodness.
Great for Make-Ahead Meals: This dish is a fantastic option for those who love meal prepping or need something quick to pull together on busy weeknights. You can assemble the spaghetti and sauce mixture in advance, store it in the fridge, and pop it into the oven when you’re ready to bake. It’s also freezer-friendly, which means you can prepare a batch, freeze it, and have a homemade meal ready whenever you need it. Just thaw, bake, and enjoy a hot, comforting meal with minimal effort.

Health Benefits of Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti

While it might not be a low-calorie dish, Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti offers a number of benefits that make it a worthwhile indulgence:

Protein-Packed: With both the cheese and bacon in this recipe, you’re getting a good dose of protein, which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and supporting overall bodily functions. Protein also helps keep you feeling full and satisfied longer, making this dish a great choice for dinner.
Source of Calcium: The mozzarella and cream cheese in this recipe are rich in calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. Calcium also plays a key role in nerve function and muscle health, making it an important part of a balanced diet.
Mood-Boosting Comfort Food: Comfort foods like this baked spaghetti have a unique way of boosting our mood, thanks to their warmth and rich flavors. Meals that we associate with happy memories or that satisfy our cravings can help release endorphins, making us feel happier and more relaxed. This dish is sure to bring a smile to your face with every creamy, bacon-filled bite.

Tips for Perfecting This Recipe

Cook Pasta Just Right: Make sure to cook your spaghetti until it’s al dente—firm but tender. This will help it maintain its texture even after baking. Overcooked pasta can become too soft and mushy during baking, which might detract from the overall dish.
Use Quality Bacon: Since bacon is a key flavor in this recipe, using high-quality bacon makes a big difference. Look for thick-cut bacon that will provide a rich, smoky flavor and add a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Don’t Skip the Mozzarella Topping: The layer of mozzarella on top is essential for creating that golden, bubbly crust that makes baked pasta dishes so appealing. If you’re a fan of extra cheesy goodness, you can even mix in some sharp cheddar or Parmesan for an added punch of flavor.
Adjust the Creaminess to Your Liking: If you like an extra creamy sauce, feel free to add a bit more cream cheese or even a splash of heavy cream when making the sauce. This will make the dish even more indulgent and decadent.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti is a hearty, filling dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect way to balance out the richness of the baked spaghetti. Try a simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and red onions with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: A classic companion to any pasta dish, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce. Toast up some crusty bread with a bit of garlic butter for a crunchy side that’s sure to be a hit.
Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or zucchini for a well-rounded meal. The veggies add a fresh element to the plate and help balance out the creamy richness of the pasta.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, feeding a hungry family, or just looking for something delicious to treat yourself to, Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti is the answer. It combines the best parts of classic pasta dishes—tender noodles, rich sauce, and a golden, cheesy top layer—with the unbeatable flavors of smoky bacon and creamy cheese. It’s a dish that brings people together, sparking smiles and satisfying cravings with every bite. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something indulgent, give this recipe a try. It’s easy to make, adaptable to different tastes, and guaranteed to become a new favorite in your comfort food lineup. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it again and again—it’s just that good.